Osteopenia to Osteoporosis - A Quick Guide

Osteopenia is an orthopedic condition in which the person experiences low bone mineral density when tested. This condition does not show any symptoms, and with time, it progresses to osteoporosis. As a result, they are known as silent conditions. If we talk about osteoporosis, the first symptom that many people experience is a fracture. Thus, it is important to slow the progression of osteoporosis when osteopenia is diagnosed. In some cases, the fracture is severe enough to require orthopedic implants.

Well, in this post, we will see the progression of osteoporosis from osteopenia and how you can prevent that. Before we move ahead, let us have a brief look at osteopenia.

What is Osteopenia?

Osteopenia is an orthopedic condition that is characterized by low bone mineral density. It is the starting stage of something big which is known as osteoporosis. Diagnosing osteopenia is not easy because it shows no significant symptoms. Hence, if not addressed timely, osteoporosis, a brittle bone disease, will develop. There are certain risk factors for the condition:

Females are more prone, especially after 35 years of age

Poor diet

Sedentary lifestyle

Smoking

Excessive alcohol consumption

Prolonged use of steroids/chemotherapy

Low mineral absorptive ability of the body

Thyroid dysfunction

How is Osteopenia Diagnosed?

Before you plan something to reduce the speed of osteoporosis progression, you need to get the condition diagnosed timely first. Now, as no symptoms develop in people suffering from osteoporosis, regular monitoring of bone mineral density can only help diagnose the condition.

The diagnostic tool for osteopenia diagnosis is a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan. This is a painless imaging diagnostic technique that uses low-level radiation to detect bone mineral density levels. It is a specialized test that is recommended to check bone density loss in people. It calculates the T score and the readings between -1 and -2.5 indicate osteopenia. While on the other hand, if the score is below -2.5, it is a marker of osteoporosis.

How does Bone Density Affect Fractures?

Fractures in people suffering from low bone density are hard to fix using surgically because of the frailty of the bones. In such cases, metal implants like intramedullary devices are used to provide support. While on the other hand, when the orthopedic specialist predicts that bone healing is complicated, joint replacement may be an option.

What Lifestyle Changes Are Required to Slow the Development of Osteoporosis?

The best way to reduce the rate at which osteopenia progresses to osteoporosis is to make some lifestyle changes. The key step here is to avoid being sedentary. Regular exercise is important to produce new bone cells and maintain joint health. Besides this, a complete diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is a must to maintain bone mineral density. Based on the condition, the healthcare service provider may also recommend supplements.

Above all, physical therapy is also a good option to maintain the strength and flexibility of the body. It must be performed under the guidance of a specialist. This helps increase bone density.

Siora Surgicals Pvt. Ltd. is a leading orthopedic implant manufacturer in India operating for over 3 decades. The company also participates in various medical exhibitions that are organized across the globe. In 2023, Siora will be exhibiting at the FIME Exhibition. You can explore products from Siora at booth G41 in FIME.